My siblings mocked me as a “crazy old woman” for adopting a newborn—until they saw the birth certificate and broke down in tears.

my family had decided my love was madness.

But Lily was innocent.

Azaria was gone.

And grief had already stolen enough from us.

“Wash your hands first,” I said.

Selene nodded quickly and went to the kitchen. Bellamy followed, wiping her cheeks with trembling fingers. Orson stayed seated, staring down at the birth certificate as if it might change if he continue reading …